VocabDictionary

deteriorate

/dɪˈtɪəriəreɪt/advanced Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.verb

To become progressively worse in quality, value, or condition.

Example Sentences:
  • Relations between the two countries began to deteriorate rapidly after the trade dispute.
  • Without proper maintenance, the old wooden bridge will quickly deteriorate.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “deteriorate”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Late Latin verb 'deteriorare' (to make worse), from the Latin adjective 'deterior' (worse), which is the comparative form of an old base meaning 'lower' or 'downward'.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of 'deteriorate' as the opposite of interior design; instead of making a place better inside, things are falling apart.

Frequently Asked Questions About “deteriorate

1. What is the meaning of “deteriorate” in English?

In English, deteriorate (verb) is defined as: “To become progressively worse in quality, value, or condition.”.

2. How do you use “deteriorate” in a sentence?

Relations between the two countries began to deteriorate rapidly after the trade dispute.

3. What are English synonyms of “deteriorate”?

Common synonyms include:worsen,decline,degenerate,decay,degrade

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “deteriorate”?

Derived from the Late Latin verb 'deteriorare' (to make worse), from the Latin adjective 'deterior' (worse), which is the comparative form of an old base meaning 'lower' or 'downward'.